The pelvic floor is a group of muscles, ligaments, and tissues that support the organs in the pelvic region, including the bladder, uterus, and rectum. The muscles of the pelvic floor play an important role in maintaining continence, sexual function, and overall pelvic stability. When these muscles become weak or injured, a pelvic floor physiotherapist can help. Learn more about pelvic floor physiotherapy in Edmonton.
What Is A Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist?
A pelvic floor physiotherapist is a healthcare professional who specializes in the treatment of pelvic floor dysfunction. They have specialized training in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of conditions related to the pelvic floor muscles.
Pelvic floor physiotherapists use a range of techniques to address issues such as pelvic pain, incontinence, sexual dysfunction, and pelvic organ prolapse. They may also work with individuals before and after pelvic surgery, during pregnancy, or postpartum to optimize pelvic health.
What Does A Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist Do?
Assessment
The first step in the treatment process from a pelvic floor physiotherapist is a thorough assessment of the pelvic floor muscles. This may include an internal pelvic exam, which involves the insertion of a gloved finger into the vagina or rectum to assess the strength, tone, and coordination of the pelvic floor muscles.
The physiotherapist may also use ultrasound or biofeedback to assess muscle function and measure muscle activity during certain exercises.
Diagnosis
Based on the results of the assessment, the physiotherapist will work with the patient to develop a diagnosis and treatment plan. Common conditions treated by pelvic floor physiotherapists include:
- Urinary incontinence
- Faecal incontinence
- Pelvic organ prolapse
- Pelvic pain
- Sexual dysfunction
Treatment
The treatment plan will be tailored to the individual’s needs and may include:
- Pelvic floor muscle exercises: The physiotherapist will teach the patient how to properly contract and relax the pelvic floor muscles to improve strength, tone, and coordination.
- Biofeedback: Using sensors, the physiotherapist can provide feedback to the patient to help them better control their pelvic floor muscles.
- Manual therapy: The physiotherapist may use massage, stretching, or trigger point release techniques to address muscle tension and improve blood flow to the pelvic region.
- Education: The physiotherapist will provide information about pelvic anatomy, bladder and bowel habits, and strategies to manage symptoms.
- Behavioural modifications: The physiotherapist may suggest changes to diet, fluid intake, or toileting habits to improve bladder and bowel function.
- Pelvic support devices: The physiotherapist may recommend the use of a pessary or other supportive device to help manage pelvic organ prolapse.
The treatment plan will be regularly reassessed and adjusted as needed based on the patient’s progress and feedback.
The Benefits of Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy
Pelvic floor physiotherapy can have numerous benefits for individuals with pelvic floor dysfunction. Some of these benefits include:
- Improved bladder and bowel control
- Reduced pain and discomfort in the pelvic region
- Improved sexual function and satisfaction
- Reduced need for surgery or medication
- Improved quality of life
Pregnancy And Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy
Pelvic floor physiotherapy can be especially beneficial for individuals who are pregnant or postpartum. During pregnancy, the weight of the growing baby can put additional strain on the pelvic floor muscles , leading to issues such as urinary incontinence or pelvic pain. Pelvic floor physiotherapy can help pregnant individuals prepare their pelvic floor for delivery and address any issues that may arise during pregnancy.
After delivery, pelvic floor physiotherapy can help individuals recover from childbirth, address any pelvic floor issues that may have developed during pregnancy, and prepare for future pregnancies.
Other Conditions And Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy
Pelvic floor physiotherapy can also benefit individuals who have undergone pelvic surgery, such as prostate or hysterectomy surgery. The physiotherapist can help the patient regain control of their pelvic floor muscles and reduce pain and discomfort associated with surgery.
Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy May Just Be The Solution
Pelvic floor dysfunction can be a challenging condition to manage, but pelvic floor physiotherapy can be an effective treatment option for many individuals. By addressing the underlying muscle issues and providing education and support, pelvic floor physiotherapists can help patients regain control of their pelvic floor muscles and improve their overall quality of life.
If you are experiencing pelvic floor dysfunction, talk to your healthcare provider about the benefits of pelvic floor physiotherapy and whether it may be a good option for you. With the help of our skilled physiotherapy team in Edmonton, AB, you can take steps to regain control of your pelvic floor muscles and improve your pelvic health with Revive Spine and Sport Physiotherapy Clinic.